FALCONS NFL DRAFT TRADE: Atlanta Falcons Sign Rookie EDGE James Pearce Jr. to $16.8M Deal, Release Veteran WR as Head Coach Raheem Morris Addresses QB Kirk Cousins’ Future………
Atlanta, GA – May 21, 2025 – The Atlanta Falcons have made significant moves this offseason, aiming to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season. These decisions include signing rookie EDGE James Pearce Jr. to a $16.8 million contract, releasing veteran wide receiver Julio Jones, and addressing the uncertain future of quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Rookie EDGE James Pearce Jr. Joins Falcons with $16.8M Deal
The Falcons have officially signed first-round draft pick EDGE James Pearce Jr. to a four-year, $16.8 million fully guaranteed contract. Pearce, selected 26th overall, is expected to bolster Atlanta’s pass rush, which has been a persistent weakness. Alongside fellow first-round pick Jalon Walker, Pearce aims to revitalize the Falcons’ defensive line and contribute to a more aggressive defense.
Head coach Raheem Morris emphasized the importance of improving the pass rush, stating, “We get beat up all year about not getting sacks, and that’s got to change. And the only way you can change that is to change that.”
Veteran WR Julio Jones Released
In a surprising move, the Falcons have released veteran wide receiver Julio Jones. The decision comes as the team seeks to create cap space and invest in younger talent. Jones, a future Hall of Famer, has been a cornerstone of the Falcons’ offense for years. However, with the emergence of younger receivers and the team’s evolving strategy, the release marks the end of an era in Atlanta.
QB Kirk Cousins’ Future with the Falcons
Quarterback Kirk Cousins’ tenure with the Falcons has been tumultuous. After signing a four-year, $180 million contract, Cousins struggled with performance inconsistencies, leading to his benching in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. during the 2024 season.
Despite the benching, head coach Raheem Morris has expressed a desire to retain Cousins as a backup. “We still feel very strongly about Kirk being our backup quarterback,” Morris stated. “We won’t hold him back if opportunity presents itself.”
However, financial considerations complicate the situation. If the Falcons were to release Cousins, they would incur a $65 million dead cap hit. Trading him could transfer part of his guaranteed salary to the acquiring team, but Cousins’ no-trade clause gives him leverage in any potential deal.
Looking Ahead
As the Falcons prepare for the 2025 season, these roster changes reflect a commitment to building a competitive team. The additions of Pearce and Walker aim to address defensive shortcomings, while the release of Jones and the uncertain future of Cousins indicate a shift towards a younger, more dynamic roster.
The Falcons’ decisions this offseason will be closely watched as they strive to return to playoff contention and build a team capable of competing in the NFC South.
